During condensation, how do the particles in water vapor change?

• A. They move closer together and their kinetic energy decreases.
• B. They move closer together but their kinetic energy remains unchanged.
• C. They remain at the same distance but their kinetic energy increases.
• D. They move farther apart and their kinetic energy increases.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that condensation is the process where a gas changes into a liquid.
2. Recall that in the gaseous state, water vapor particles are far apart and have high kinetic energy, moving rapidly.
3. During condensation, particles lose energy, causing them to slow down and move closer together as they transition into the liquid phase.
4. Recognize that the decrease in kinetic energy is essential because it allows intermolecular forces to pull the particles closer, forming a liquid.
5. Therefore, during condensation, water vapor particles move closer together and their kinetic energy decreases.